They posted graphics calling him a "biological female" before he caved. Rittenhouse backtracked his criticism not even 12 hours after the online hate from his fellow conservatives started.
He really is. Think about how many people have backed Trump thinking they could maintain their integrity and control the far right. Hell, you can see Trump having the same problems. He got booed when he suggested COVID vaccines and quickly backed off.
When you pump people full of fear and misinformation, you lose the ability to steer ship. All you can do is sell out, completely abandon your dignity and try to ride the crazy wave.